Who is the most vulnerable to catching the flu?

Anyone can get the flu, but some groups are more susceptible than others and are at greater risk for more serious complications or even death.
Risk groups include:

•  Children under the age of 2 (whose immune system is not yet fully developed)



•  Seniors over the age of 65 (most flu deaths are among seniors)



•  Anyone who has a chronic medical condition (such as asthma or diabetes)



•  Pregnant women



•  Health care workers



•  Nursing home residents

The CDC recommends that high-risk individuals get a flu vaccination each year. The same precautions should be taken with everybody during flu season. If you or your child contracts the flu, the best thing to do is keep them warm and comfortable and to ease the aches and pains of flu treat them with either Tylenol or Advil. Never give children or teenagers aspirin because the chance of getting Ryes syndrome is very high.

The best way to treat the Flu or a cold is to just treat the symptoms.

•  Fluids - Get your child to drink. Water is the best or your can try sports drinks with electrolytes.
  


•  Humidify - A cool mist humidifier will help to keep the air moist so your childs nose and throat  will feel better.



•  Rest - Rest and sleep are the best things you can do when you are sick. Make sure your kids lie  still and get plenty of sleep.



•  Blow - Have your kids blow their noses a lot. You want to make sure they get all the mucus out  of their sinus'. If they are too young to blow their nose you may want to pick up a bulb syring  and saline nasal drops and learn how to use them.



•  Medications - Check with your doctor before giving your child any medications. If your child has  a fever you may want to give him a fever reducer. Something like Tylenol or Advil can not only  reduce fever but also help with muscle aches and headaches. A decongestant and/or cough  suppressant may help to make them feel better too.
  


•  If your child starts to have trouble breathing you should call your doctor and/or take him to the  hospital to be checked.